- There are a couple of things you'll need to consider when picking the perfect tree: how much weight the tree will support and how far apart the two trees are. For most hammocks, you'll want to be sure the tree can support up to 250 pounds. This means selecting a trunk with a thick trunk at least six inches thick. Make sure the tree is healthy, with clean, stress-free bark and productive leaves.
While you can string a hammock between two trees that are as far apart as the hammock is wide, you'll be more satisfied if there is at least 3 inches of additional space between the trees. The distance that the hammock is spread affects the spring in the hammock; if a hammock is strung up with the extra space, it will offer a greater swing. - Although you can hang a hammock using only rope, it's better to drill hooks into the trees. If you do not own the house and prefer to leaves the trees intact, you will need two lengths of rope to attach to the end rings of your hammock. To hang the hammock with rope, simply wrap the rope around the tree at a height of 4-5 feet, then tie the rope with a strong knot. Repeat this on the other side. You can easily untie the hammock for winter storage.
- To hang a hammock from two trees using hooks, you should follow the same placement instructions as above. You will need a drill, a pair of hooks that you will sink into the tree and two S-hooks that you will attach to the hammock's end rings. Drill the hooks into the tree at the desired height, with 4-5 feet being a good recommendation. The hammock will droop once you've gotten in it so be careful not to hang it too low. Screw the hooks into the drill hole, then clip one end of the S-hook onto the hammock's end ring and the other onto your hook. The hammock should be easy to hang and remove, and the hooks won't hurt a healthy tree.